Generally, there's no hypothyroidism diet. Although claims about hypothyroidism diets abound, there's no evidence that eating or avoiding certain foods will improve thyroid function in people with hypothyroidism.

If you have hypothyroidism, take thyroid hormone replacement as directed by your doctor — generally with an empty stomach. It's also important to note that too much dietary fiber can impair the absorption of synthetic thyroid hormone. Certain foods, supplements and medications can have the same effect.

Avoid taking your thyroid hormone at the same time as:

Walnuts

Soybean flour

Cottonseed meal

Iron supplements or multivitamins containing iron

Calcium supplements

Antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium

Some ulcer medications, such as sucralfate (Carafate)

Some cholesterol-lowering drugs, such as those containing cholestyramine (Questran) and colestipol (Colestid)

To avoid potential interactions, eat these foods or use these products several hours before or after you take your thyroid medication.

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